The statement, written in French, in part said that driver's concern was to ensure the safety of the children on the bus. The statement says any object not contained inside a school bag including "a book, a toy or an electronic device" could injure a student if the bus stopped suddenly.

"Nobody wants an accident due to a lack of vigilance," said the statement in part.

The other concern raised by district officials is that other students might standup while the bus is in motion to get a better look at the book which could lead to a dangerous situation if the driver had to make any sudden moves while on the road.

According to CBC News the whole thing started when 8-year-old Sarah Auger was told by the driver she could not read books during her 20-minute bus ride.

Her father told CBC News he is proud his daughter loves to read and wants to encourage her to do it as much as possible.

He wants to see the rule on her school bus change.

"I find it stupid and useless," he said.

Thursday the Quebec bus company that employs the driver weighed in on the controversy.